Does this just happen in the LA area or are networks marketing for their new fall line up like crazy everywhere right now? I’m seeing trailers, posters and billboards for the new shows on Fox, ABC, NBC and CBS everywhere and I’m getting pretty freaking excited! I’m a TV junkie and the new shows every fall are so fun! Here’s one thing that bugs me about new shows, though—single female characters seem to always announce that they’re taking a break from dating in the first season of show. That sounds so strange to me. Do people really do that? Like, just full on say that they’re single and wouldn’t open the door if love came a knockin’? It’s not realistic, right? Generally, I say never stop dating and always be on the hunt when you’re single. However, there are a few times when it’s OK to take a break from dating.
You’re fresh out of a break up
Believe me, I know what it’s like to be fresh out of a break up and not ready to date someone new. One of my friends went out on a date just a week after a break up, hoping it would help her heal, and she wound up sobbing in the bathroom because something her date said reminded her of her ex and she couldn’t control her tear ducts. See above that I said “fresh out of a break up,” though. I mean fresh. I don’t think you can be six months out of a three-month relationship and still refusing first dates. As soon as you can go 12 hours without thinking about your ex and you’re able to say his name without crying, you’re ready to dip your toes back into dating. I’m not saying you’re fully ready to move on. That’s something personal that you’ll have to decide for yourself. But, you’re definitely ready to open up and test the dating waters again.
You don’t have time for a serious boyfriend
A lot of women I know say they don’t have time to date. I think that’s BS. I get that first dates are time consuming and the beginning stages of a relationship take up a lot of your brain space. But, that’s no reason not to date. Make time for dating. You’ll be glad you did. However, if you don’t have time for a serious boyfriend, that’s a different story. A serious boyfriend is someone you’re comfortable with, you don’t have to plan much with and you can just be together and it’s wonderful. So, all you need to have time for is dinner or a movie or your favorite TV show and you have time for a serious boyfriend. If things as minimal as those feel overwhelming—and I’ve been there sister, trust me—then you’re excused from dating. For now. As soon as your schedule opens up slightly, and it will eventually, I want you to get back out there.
You never want to find love
I’m fine with you taking a break from dating if you never, ever want to find true love. If you’re comfortable with the idea of living your life solo, step out of the dating pool, my friend. Sometimes when we’re in emotional states or unwell in other elements of our life, our brain needs to focus on the urgent matter so it tells us that other less crucial goals are unimportant in the moment. If you’re going through a period like that, I’m fine with you focusing on yourself until you feel better. If this period lasts for more then two months, though, I’d recommend talking to a professional to be sure you’re not dipping into depression.
No matter what you’re reason for taking a break from dating, I urge you to get back in the game as soon as you’re ready. Love is fantastic and you deserve it!
